Camping spots near Ephraim, Wisconsin provide access to varied terrain along the Niagara Escarpment, with elevations reaching 230 feet above Green Bay. The area's microclimate, influenced by Lake Michigan, creates cooler summer temperatures than inland Wisconsin locations, typically 5-10 degrees lower during peak summer months. Mosquitoes can be particularly intense from late May through July, especially in wooded areas.
What to do
Hiking Eagle Trail: Explore Peninsula State Park's most challenging trail with rocky terrain requiring proper footwear. "The Eagle trail is very unique but bring ankle support lots of rocks," notes a visitor to Peninsula State Park. The trail follows the Niagara Escarpment with geological features not found elsewhere in the park.
Visit lighthouses: Explore Eagle Bluff Lighthouse within Peninsula State Park. "You can go on tours of it but we were too late to go on one. The light house is beautiful and has a wonderful view," shares a camper. Note that Eagle's Bluff lighthouse is currently closed for renovations through August 2025.
Seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring camping offers rare wildflower displays. At Newport State Park, "Gorgeous wildflowers in the spring, including the rare dwarf lake iris and lots of trillium," mentions a visitor. Wildflower peak typically occurs mid-May through early June.
Cherry orchard visits: Stay at campgrounds near working orchards during harvest season. "Just north of sister bay and right next door to a cherry orchard this campground was great!" reports a camper at Hy-Land Court. Cherry season typically runs mid-July to early August, with picking opportunities at multiple orchards within 10 miles of Ephraim.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Door County offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Clear night skies which was truly breathtaking," notes a camper at Newport State Park, Wisconsin's only International Dark Sky Park. The best viewing occurs during new moon phases, with skies darkening completely by 9:30 PM in summer months.
Clean shower facilities: Many campers highlight modern bathroom facilities. At Wagon Trail Campground, "They are well-known for having the cleanest bathrooms/showers in the area and their bathrooms did not disappoint! They are air conditioned with individual, private stalls and hot water!" During busy summer weekends, morning showers may have wait times up to 15 minutes.
Wooded site privacy: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites among mature trees. "Baileys Woods lives up to its name – it is a very wooded campground, which provides reasonable separation between the sites," notes a visitor to Baileys Woods Campground. Most wooded sites are located in the interior loops away from main roads.
Water access proximity: Campsites near Green Bay or Lake Michigan provide convenient water recreation. "The sites were private, spacious. The showers were impeccable. There is even a dish washing station," says a visitor about Wagon Trail Campground. Water temperatures typically reach swimming-friendly levels by late June.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peninsula State Park sites fill extremely quickly. "If you would like to book for cherry season they recommended calling 4-6 weeks in advance," explains a camper at Baileys Woods. For waterfront sites at Peninsula State Park, reservations open 11 months in advance and typically fill within hours of release.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically across Door County. At Welcker's Point Campground, "Don't plan on having any cell phone reception with AT&T. 90% of the time I was at my campsite my phone was in SOS mode. You need to drive out to the park entrance to get reliable reception." T-Mobile and Verizon coverage also shows significant gaps throughout the peninsula.
Poison ivy awareness: Several campgrounds report significant poison ivy presence. "There is a lot of poison ivy, but as long as you stay on the campsites and the road, you'll be fine," warns a camper at Welcker's Point. Poison ivy grows abundantly along trail edges throughout the peninsula, particularly in partially shaded areas.
Water conditions: Lake Michigan swimming areas feature varying shoreline conditions. "Beach was covered in crushed shells so shoes a must. Water shoes even better if you want to wade in," advises a Newport State Park visitor. Water clarity typically improves in August when algae blooms diminish.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Tennison Bay Campground, "There is a nice playground. Showers and laundry available," notes a visitor. The playground equipment is suitable for children ages 4-12 and remains open until the campground quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Beach proximity considerations: Choose sites based on beach access for easier days with children. "A great state park with campsite options. There is hiking, biking, and a wonderful beach in the park as well," shares a Peninsula State Park camper. The main swimming beach at Nicolet Bay features shallow entry points ideal for younger children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Visit nature centers for child-friendly programming. "The nature center was packing with information about the animals there and we even got to watch a monarch butterfly come out of its chrysalis!" reports a visitor to Peninsula State Park. Ranger programs typically run weekends in summer and include activities for children 5-12.
Storage considerations: Secure food from wildlife, especially in tent camping areas. "Watch out for raccoons though! Be sure to put all food in your vehicles at night or if you leave the campsite," advises a Tennison Bay camper. Bear-resistant containers aren't required, but raccoons and other small mammals are persistent throughout Door County campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers note varied terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Weborg Point Campground, "The sites were all level with a gravel parking spot and plenty of room for hammocks, tents, screen rooms, etc." Most RV sites feature gravel pads, though some report becoming muddy during heavy rains.
Water quality awareness: Iron content affects water appearance at some campgrounds. "The water here is loaded with iron and comes out looking orange, even the well water for drinking. It didn't taste bad, but it definitely looked gross in a water bottle," reports a visitor to Welcker's Point. RVers recommend filling tanks before arrival or bringing drinking water.
Limited sewer hookups: Full-service sites are scarce in Door County. "Only wished there were more sewer hookups but definitely not a deal breaker!!" notes a Wagon Trail camper. Dump stations can have 30+ minute waits during peak checkout times on summer weekends.
Electrical considerations: Bring surge protectors due to occasional power fluctuations. "Park has multiple CGs. This CG has stunning views near water, restrooms, fire rings and tables at sites," mentions a camper at Peninsula State Park. Most electric sites provide 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability.
